Making History

Making History is a riveting television series that aired in 2017 on FOX Network. Designed to entertain whilst providing a blend of history and comedy, the show crafts a unique narrative that thrives on its unusual concept. The series is created by Julius Sharpe, known for his work on popular shows like ‘Family Guy’ and ‘The Cleveland Show.’ The show promises high-grade production values, top-notch comedic performances, and a wildly inventive approach to the concept of time travel.

The story of Making History revolves around three friends from two different centuries, grappling with the routine challenges of life but in an unconventional way. They do so by making time-travel trips to some of the most memorable moments in history, using a time machine. The plot of the show builds up in a robust comedic framework, ensuring a good laugh while also providing a nuanced perspective on the past.

The characters are the pillars of this sci-fi comedy show. The main character, Dan Chambers, is a computer science professor at a small college in Massachusetts. He uses his technical skills to invent a time machine, which resembles an oversized duffel bag. Unlike the ordinary life he leads in the present, his trips to the 18th century make him popular and even a hero, leading to a complete shift in his otherwise mundane existence.

Next in line is his friend Chris Parish, who is also a professor at the same college, except he specializes in history. Chris is cautious, as compared to Dan, and always weighs the consequences of their time-travelling adventures. His knowledge about history plays a detrimental role in ensuring they don't rewrite history by mistake during their travels.

The third character, Deborah Revere, is a denizen of the 1700s. She is considered ahead of her time due to her pragmatic and liberal outlook. She is smart, authentically hilarious, empathetic, and falls in love with Dan, who introduces her to the wonders and shocks of the future.

As they navigate various centuries, every episode brings a new set of amusing problems as the characters alternate between the different historical settings and the present day. Facing contemporary issues in different eras, much of the humor derives from the characters' adjustments to the societal norms of the past or their attempts to retro-fit the future into the past.

However, it's not all fun and games. Time travel in 'Making History' carries wider implications. The smallest actions in the past can affect the future enormously, resulting in an altered timeline and introducing paradigm shifts in the grand scheme of history. This introduces a layer of dramatic tension, with our protagonists constantly trying to avoid any cataclysmic reshaping of history stemming from their actions.

In terms of production values, Making History is a visual treat. The depiction of different eras is done with impeccable attention to detail, making viewers feel as if they've stepped into a time machine themselves. Meanwhile, the pacing ensures there's never a dull moment, with the humor and high energy persisting throughout.

Performances by the leading cast members, including Adam Pally, Yassir Lester, and Leighton Meester, are a major highlight, as they bring these unique characters to life with panache and heart. Their chemistry and comedic timing make for some genuinely fun and unforgettable moments throughout the series.

In a nutshell, Making History stands out for its intelligent use of time travel, balanced with sharp humor and a touch of heart. Its fascinating, yet humorous view of history, combined with unpredictable plots and well-developed characters make it a must-watch. The premise of the series might have a sci-fi element to it, but its nearly universal appeal stems from its combination of comedic charm, endearing characters, and an imaginative concept, making it a show that the audience can enjoy irrespective of their usual preferences.